Chinese fan palms are native to southern Japan, Taiwan, and some of the islands in the
South China sea. They are not found in the wild in North America.

Identification: Trees are 30-50' (9.1-15 m) high and
up to 12' (3.7 m) around. Fan-shaped leaf clusters have swordlike leaves up to 6' (1.8 m) long.
The leaves have tapered ribbon-like segments that sway in the breeze, suggesting an effect like
a fountain. The petioles, or stems that connect the leaves to the tree, have sharp spines. Flowers
are inconspicuous and mostly hidden. Fruits are bluish-black, resembling olives.